When you look at a wolf and a pet dog, what do you feel? Most people are scared of running into a wolf, but many are excited to see a Corgi or poodle.
Although modern dogs and wolves are both descended from an ancient wolf species that is now extinct, their bodies are different. Compared to wolves, dogs have rounder faces, larger eyes and shorter tails (see graphic).
This is because today’s wolves did not live with people, but dogs have been domesticated for about 30,000 years. Scientists don’t know exactly how this happened, but some believe that over time, the friendliest of these canines had an advantage with humans. They also learned how to get what they want from us.
For example, they create puppy-dog eyes by raising their inner eyebrows and looking at us with big, sad eyes.
But why this is so cute?
Scientists believe puppy-dog eyes look bigger and rounder – more like a baby’s – so it makes people feel sorry for them.
When humans and dogs look at each other, they feel connected because their brains release a chemical called oxytocin. This is also released when mothers and babies look at each other.
